Old co-op buildings in Tempe torn down to make way for high-rise
Katie Nelson
The Arizona Republic
Jan. 3, 2007 12:00 AM
Stucco siding fell like cardboard with each swipe of an
excavation truck's clawed arm.
Chunks of building, shelving and retaining wall clattered to the ground,
relegating the old Gentle Strength Co-op buildings to memories for organic food
fans.
The aging structures at the intersection of University Drive and Ash Avenue were demolished to make way for a 21-story condo complex and a corporate
health-food store. The demolition last month was the first visible sign to the
community that the Mosaic project is under way.
"It's kind of sad to see it go," said Chris Corwin, who was working
at the new Gentle Strength Co-op location at Mill and Southern avenues during
the demolition.
"But it's a dual thing. Everyone is trying to focus
on our new future here."
Developers also are scheduled to rip out at least three smaller buildings near University Drive and Forest Avenue in the coming weeks.
The work will clear land for a massive mixed-use building with three towers,
called University Square.
One of the Arches buildings will be torn down, as will the building that housed
the Trophy Den, said Tony Wall, one of the project's developers. The entire
block could be cleared as early as February, Wall said.
"Change is change," said Roy Hoyt, a neighborhood activist who lives
near the demolition sites.
He said he remembers patronizing the shops and restaurants in the Arches when
he was a student at Arizona State University, and when the Gentle Strength
buildings housed a lumber yard.
Justin LaMar, Mosaic developer, said sales on homes are planned for this winter
and construction is slated to start this summer, LaMar said.
Mosaic is scheduled to have 215 homes on a nearly 2 acres. The first two floors
are designated to be a home for Whole Foods Market.
Flats, townhouses, condos and penthouses and residential amenities will occupy
the rest of the space.